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West Seattle Little League celebration: ‘Dreams do come true’

(WSB photos by Patrick Sand)
“Dreams do come true,” exulted West Seattle Little League president Mark Terao as he and WSLL leaders past, present, and future cut the ribbon formally dedicating the Bar-S Playfield improvements they fought hard to make happen.

Central among them, the new “Snack Shack” in front of which the ribbon was stretched for the brief ceremony, led by Terao:

(WSB video by Tracy Record)

The architect who donated his time was part of it too, Rich Murakami, ski-jacketed in the chilly drizzle:

(Murakami is not only a nearby resident, he’s also made his mark on West Seattle in another very-visible project – the Southwest Precinct.)

The dedication was part of a celebration that defied the day’s off-and-on rain, bookended by a season-ending barbecue, among other things. More after the jump:

The grill was sizzling with enough food to feed hundreds. But the window still rolled open at the new Snack Shack, post-ceremony:

That’s Gina Coats inside. The Bar-S project addressed more than a need for a better concession stand – it includes storage, and has brought permanent restrooms to the park. Good news for the parents, one WSLL mom told us, pointing to the Honey Buckets on the other side of the park.

After the ribboncutting, it was right back to food and fun. That included another tradition – announcing the teams and presenting their trophies. We stayed long enough to see some of the youngest players, the T-ballers, accept their honors:

First up were the Dust Devils; not long after that, the Sea Monsters:

And some of the players weren’t at the event because they’re still playing – the WSLL majors and minors champs were in Normandy Park for the Tournament of Champions. The WSLL All-Stars will be in postseason play soon, with games coming to Bar-S, new facilities and all, the weekend before the Fourth of July.

West Seattle Little League has wonderful volunteers that have worked for years to get this done. Sorry we couldn’t make it yesterday, but thanks to everyone for working so hard. Fitting that it was RAINING again yesterday. Let’s hope for less rain next spring!

Tracy,
The planning and construction of the new facilities has been ongoing for over 50 years. Through the hard work and dedication of so many West Seattle Little League families over the years we were able to finally put everything together.
I am confident that the community, future WSLL families and WSLL volunteers will continue to care for the facilities and enjoy all that Bar-S playfield has to offer.
Thank you for the coverage and for all you do for our community.
Mark Terao
President
West Seattle Little League

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